Burnett and Hancock discuss economy

Mr Hancock is currently Minister of State for Business and Enterprise and Minister of State for Energy.

During their meeting, while the minister was visiting Aberdeen, the duo visited Deeside Timber Frame in Stonehaven and discussed the importance of securing jobs in the oil industry, as well as the role small businesses and enterprise have to play in strengthening the economy.

Mr Hancock, who narrowly avoided the sack last year after retweeting a homophobic poem about the Labour party, spoke about the current situation in the North Sea oil and gas industry.

He said: “It is clear that the Conservatives are the only party who are friends to business and will work with all industries to help strengthen their economic prospects.

“It has been a pleasure to meet with local business and community leaders in Aberdeenshire and it is clear why it is an area with one of the lowest unemployment records in the UK.

“However, I am determined not to be complacent with the current oil price.

‘‘Therefore, I have been working hard with my fellow Conservative colleagues to ensure that jobs are secured and businesses are not hindered in the North East.”

Alexander Burnett agreed with his party colleague and highlighted Westminster’s attempts at stabilising confidence in the North Sea oil and gas following a return to normalcy in oil prices after a five year high.

He said: “The Government have already begun to alleviate the burden in the oil industry at this difficult time which is a vital sector for the North-east economy.

“It has been fantastic to have the Energy Minister come up to the North-east as it shows the importance we play in the economy of the UK.

“Local businesses are the foundation of our economy and the Conservatives are the only party who will not be squeezing small businesses out of pocket.”

“It has been made clear by the SNP and Labour that they would form a pact which would be detrimental to both individuals and businesses in the North-east.”